S2 Ep19: I Have Dementia, Now What?

Hello Care Partners, The podcast today came after I was counseling a family who asked me to do a podcast on what do I do after I get a diagnosis. Great question, and I am sure it applies to many. We are going to mix it up a little today and use not just my information but we will add in three different organizations and their lists for what to do after the diagnosis. We will refer to A Place for Mom, National Institute on Aging, and a great article from Tamara McClintock Greenberg, Psy.D., M.S. an associate clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco.

  • Do your research and learn about the diagnosis.

  • Get a medical check up and see the specialist early.

  • Find a support group for patient and the caregiver.

  • Assess for awareness of the diagnosis. Some will know they have Dementia and some will not and we may need more training to care for these individuals.

  • Make the living space safe and assess driving skills.

  • Find appropriate activities.

  • Manage the financial, legal and advanced directives.

  • Know your plan B when the current care situation is no longer appropriate.

  • Bring help in ahead of the need.

  • Manage the medication as they decline for example using medisets.

  • Maybe participate in a clinical trial.

  • If you live alone with a diagnosis, consider notifying the local EMS and wearing a medical bracelet.

  • Don't ignore the emotions that come up when caring for someone with Dementia.

  • The demands of Dementia can tax even the most well meaning caregiver.

  • It's OK to grieve during this caregiving season.

  • I hope this fills a need for you on your journey.

You Got This, Teresa

Watch the full episode below

You can also click the link below to listen on Spotify

Teresa Rapp Youngstrom

Dementia Specialist

Teresa is a Seasoned Registered Nurse with more than 38 years of clinical and leadership experience. Diverse core competencies including Emergency and Trauma, Labor and Delivery, OR, ICU, Medical Surgical, Rehab, Hospice, Home Care, IV and Dementia Specialist, Private Duty Care, Marketer, Assisted Living and Memory Care Director, Staff Trainer, Speaker, Consultant and CE Provider. Her compassion for people living with Dementia is evident as soon as you meet her. She will provide your organization or family with excellent insight and care.

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